Senior Mechanical Engineer - Fuel Systems
Quantum Fuel Systems is engineering the future of alternative fuel solutions. For over 25 years, we've been at the forefront of clean energy innovation, designing, developing, and delivering industry-leading storage systems and transport trailers for compressed natural gas (CNG), renewable natural gas (RNG), and hydrogen. Based in Lake Forest, California, we're driving clean energy forward by helping our partners meet ambitious net-zero targets with safe, reliable, and sustainable solutions. Our product line includes next-generation fuel storage systems for commercial vehicles and virtual pipeline trailers that offer industry-leading capacity with advanced composite technology.
About the role
This role will be pivotal in the development of new products, improvement of existing designs, and support of system design activities. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in mechanical engineering, experience with alternative fuel systems or related industries, and a passion for creating cutting-edge solutions that advance safety and performance in the alternative fuel sector and gas transportation. Additionally, this role will involve preparing specifications for hydrogen and CNG vehicle and transportation components and working with internal and external customers to design and configure components for various applications.
Responsibilities
- Design, develop, test, and integrate high-pressure gaseous fuel components and systems for CNG and Hydrogen automotive, truck, and virtual pipeline applications.
- Lead high-pressure component and system designs.
- Generate and support design activities: DFMEA, ADVP&R, etc.
- Evaluate, select, and qualify supplier products and services.
- Outline and oversee or perform product verification and validation testing.
- Support field services and failure root cause analyses.
- Perform analytic calculations, e.g., load and flow calculations.
- Provide technical support and expertise to internal (e.g. operations, manufacturing, sales, service) and external customers.
- Lead and mentor Junior Mechanical Engineers.
- Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices to drive continuous improvement and innovation in design processes.
- Adopt and implement Quantum's Quality Assurance Procedures-QAP and Departmental Work Instructions-DWI.
- Prepare strong documentation; test procedures, test reports, etc.
Requirements
- Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering + 5 years' experience.
- Master's degree is a plus.
- Product development with high pressure components in automotive.
- High pressure gaseous (hydrogen, CNG) system design and component selection.
- Developing and implementing test procedures.
- Knowledge of material compatibility issues with hydrogen and natural gas.
- Ability to apply a systematic and logical approach to engineering and design processes.
- Strong understanding of mechanical design principles, materials selection, and manufacturing processes.
- Knowledge of automotive industry standards and regulations related to alternative fuel systems.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
- Effective communication skills and ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams.
- Design for Manufacturing (DFM) concepts. Familiar with control plans, FMEA, and GD&T.
Skills
- CAD (NX Unigraphics preferred).
- Large modular assemblies design.
- Good communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Strong documentation skills.
Physical Job Requirements
The employee will spend some of their time on the production floor. While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be required to stand for long periods of time, kneel, and crouch. In the office, the employee is regularly required to use their hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, and telephone keypad or to write, as well as talk and hear. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to focus. This position involves occasionally lifting to 40 pounds.
Pay
$120,000.00 - $140,000.00/year
Benefits
- Comprehensive Health Coverage - Choose from 2 HMO or 2 PPO medical plans, plus dental, vision, and life insurance.
- Financial Benefits - 401(k) with company match and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA).
- Paid Time Off - Vacation, sick leave, and company holidays.